SWL Designs

Baker Reunion

2008-07-17T22:53:00.003-05:00

After nearly a week of solid "fooling" with the new photography website, I have finally had a chance to put the pictures from last weekend's reunion with the Baker family online. Just visit the photography site, then click "clients". Once that's done, just enter Baker as the password.

We had a blast and hope you enjoy the pics!

Life...

2008-06-30T14:58:00.002-05:00

I know, I know... what a title. A few things have happened recently that have caused me to ponder just that... life. In a matter of 10 days, people around me have lost 4 people they loved. One dear friend and lost her father-in-law last week and is now faced with the coming death of her mother-in-law as well, or so hospice tells the family. This poor family just buried one parent and are now contemplating burying another. I just cannot imagine the toll the stress has taken and continues to take on this one family. Unfortunately we face death many times throughout our lives, but two parents so close... I just cannot imagine. Please, please keep Tiffany, Robert, and the entire Hughes family in your prayers. The are facing what surely seems an insurmountable obstacle and I know they would appreciate any help they can get.

It truly makes me realize how precious each day is that we all have together. Be sure you tell the people that you love how you feel today. Unfortunately, we never know when it might be our last opportunity to do so.

Bloggin' 'bout a Blog

2008-06-24T15:59:00.004-05:00

One of my friends that works for Southern Bride with me recently sent me a link the blog of a fabulous new wedding publication, Southern Wedding Style. Now magazine-wise I'm a little partial to the SB, but the folks over at SWS sure can put together a blog. It is FILLED with some of the most amazing photography and most beautiful weddings I have ever seen. When you get a chance, check out their blog at: http://www.swsmag.net/

I might also inspire you to check out this blog: http://snippetandink.blogspot.com/

Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler

2008-06-18T22:16:00.003-05:00

We're less than 24 hours away from the "official" grand opening and ribbon cutting at our new location in Blank Canvas Studios at 137 West Main Street. As part of the celebration we're hosting a "Business After Hours" event from the Chamber of Commerce. In our usual laid-back style we're serving a low country boil filled with fresh shrimp, corn, new potatoes, sausage, and Tiffany's famous bread pudding. If you pass by tomorrow evening and see me out on the sidewalk downtown, stop by a visit!

If you can't join us... I've attached a great shrimp boil recipe from Southern Living Magazine. Enjoy!!
Timmy's Boiled Shrimp

New Site

2008-06-18T08:38:00.001-05:00

Well, the new site went live today! It's far different than any of our other sites. I'd like to know what you think about it! Leave me a comment on my blog and let me know.

A New Sense of Purpose

2008-06-14T22:55:00.003-05:00

So much of this blog has been useless up until this point, but I've decide to start making it a little more useful for those two or three folks that read it on a daily basis. Hopefully I will be able to offer some insight into the event planning business and offer some fun and interesting tips and suggestions to help make your event one-of-a-kind. A few things of note:

Preston Bailey is coming to Birmingham! I know this is only exciting for those freaks like me in the event industry, but Preston is truly a visionary in the special event world and the chance to meet him comes rarely. If you're interested, contact Dorothy McDaniel's Flower Market at 205-871-0092. It's a bit pricey though. There's a VIP Cocktail party on September 7th for $250. Then the following night, Preston will be at the Stardome. Tickets for that are $85.

Learn more about Preston and his amazing work on his website at www.prestonbailey.com

Only 3 Months Left!

2008-06-14T14:19:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure that I believe this, but the calendar tells me I've only got a little more than three more months before our little Jack arrives. 3 Months!!! I'm spending much of this weekend working on preparing the nursery for my little guy. It seems like it was only a few weeks ago that I saw that glow on Heather's face when she told me she was pregnant. It's just amazing how time flies.

A year ago I never would have imagined that I would be in this place in my life now. And though it scares the absolute crap out of me that I"m about to be a dad, I wouldn't change it for the world. So ready for my little guy to be here...

Thanks for the Thoughts and Prayers!

2008-06-11T14:49:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to take a moment to say thanks to everyone for all of the thoughts and prayers for my Mom over the past few days. The doctor removed her gallbladder last night and she is doing remarkably well, all things considered. The outpouring of love and support has been overwhelming for me and my family. We greatly appreciate all of the phone calls, visits, prayers, and well wishes. At this point we're not sure how long she'll be in the hospital based on the severity of the surgery. Normally it takes about 1 hour to remove someones gallbladder, but it took the surgeon nearly 3 hours with Mom's. But she's in good spirits and feeling much better. I'll keep you all posted...

The King is Alive!!

2008-06-07T23:31:00.006-05:00

Folks, I would have never imagined that I would ever say anything as ridiculous as this, but... the King is Alive! I have pictures. He is alive and he lives in a man named Scot Bruce.

My best friend, Laura, and her family took Heather and me to the Alabama Shakespeare Festival tonight to see Scot Bruce as Elvis. I've heard Laura rave over this guy for years, but could never understand the infatuation. I'll be the first to say that I have never really been an Elvis fan, but this guys is AMAZING! He sounds just like the king of rock and roll and looks a lot like him too.

We had an absolute blast despite being some the youngest people in the audience. Our little Jack must be a fan too. He spent the whole time jumping around inside of mom.

If you ever have the opportunity to see this guy, GO! He truly brings the hip-shaking, pelvis-thrusting king to life. Even if you're not big Elvis fan, you will be impressed by how much he truly looks and sounds like him.

To Laura and Fam- Thanks for the INCREDIBLE opportunity! It was an awesome experience!

Learn more about Scot Bruce on his website at http://www.scotbruce.com/

Saturday's Events!

2008-06-05T15:29:00.003-05:00

Join us for the much anticipated grand opening of The Blank Canvas located at 137 West Main Street in Historic Downtown Prattville. This creative space is the home to the studios of child, family, and lifestyle photographer Tiffany Hughes, wedding photographer Spring Bruner, and wedding and event designer Stacey Little. The boutique studio will also house the central Alabama office of Southern Bride Magazine. In addition to functioning as a creative studio, the Blank Canvas offers a variety of frames and unique gifts items. The Blank Canvas is the only place in central Alabama to find world-renowned Second Line Frames exclusive line of custom pictures frames. These spectacular frames are handmade from remnants of structures destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. The studio also offers a variety of other handmade and custom frames, monogrammed wooden and acrylic trays, bowls, and gift items, and features some of the incredible artwork from local artists.

Saturday, the Blank Canvas invites everyone to stop by and enjoy a glass of ice cold lemonade and a snack and register to win a variety of items including one of the highly-sought after Second Line Frames pictures frames. All three studios will be offering great discounts and exclusive deals during the grand opening celebration. Form more information, visit http://www.blankcanvasphoto.com/

We Made the Paper!!

2008-06-04T09:06:00.002-05:00

Check out this article in today's Montgomery Advertiser about the fabulous "Photoships" that Tiffany is offering to excelling high school seniors.

http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008806040338

Grand Opening Special

2008-06-02T20:16:00.003-05:00

As part of the grand event that is our grand opening we all will be offering specials and discounts. Book an event with me during the entire month of June and you'll receive a $500 discount on our event design services. For info on the discounts and specials Tiffany and Spring are offering, visit www.BlankCanvasPhoto.com and check out their blogs.

Stop by and see us!

Grand Opening

2008-06-02T19:46:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow the studio will open with all the pomp, circumstance, and trumpet fanfare. It's your first real opportunity to see what all Blank Canvas is about. We've got a huge selection of beautiful frames made from the remnants of houses damaged during hurricane Katrina, awesome handmade frames in great, fun colors, and a variety of customizable wood and acrylic gifts. It's really a neat space that you all should take the chance to stop by and see. I'll be in the shop on Saturday so stop by and let me know what I can do to make your event a success.

Blank Canvas
a boutique studio
137 West Main Street
Prattville, Alabama
http://www.blankcanvasphoto.com/

Bloggin' at the Beach

2008-05-27T21:00:00.006-05:00

That's right folks, eat your hearts out... I'm at the beach. After another whirlwind wedding this weekend in Columbiana, I'm taking a week off to enjoy the beach. It's a much needed break and an opportunity to spend some much needed time with my wife before Jack arrives. Oh and by the way, robbers and thieves beware; we've got someone staying in the house. So it's not quite a free-for-all over at the Little's.

This weekend's wedding was one of my favorite (though I think I say that about all of them). It was an outdoor ceremony in a beautiful open-air chapel at the 4-H Center. The reception was held in the newly constructed certified green building there. I know what you're thinking... 4-H?? Seriously, the place is absolutely stunning. You should check it out: http://www.alabama4hcenter.org/

For the simple but elegant ceremony we draped the chapel in flowing white fabric, suspended a candle chandelier from the ceiling, and put a huge all-white arrangement on the alter. In keeping with the natural feel of the location, we devised a very "earthy" theme for the reception, using gnarled kiwi vine and cymbidium orchid centerpieces. The decor was topped off with a fabulous custom ice sculpture by Chef David Bromley.

Again, it couldn't have been possible without my INCREDIBLE team. They impress me more and more with each event.

Exhaustion and Elation

2008-05-18T21:54:00.004-05:00

As I sit here and tirelessly type this blog entry I am coming off of a three day flower and decor binge for one of the most fantastic couples I know. My step brother married his fiance this weekend in one of the most beautiful ceremonies, short of my own of course. The simple but elegant ceremony in all white led into a fabulous all red reception at Marengo Plantation in Lowndesboro. Wedding guests danced into the night under red Chinese lanterns and a custom monogram logo projected on the tent ceiling. In honor of the bride's family, the guests dined on an elaborate menu of Italian favorites by Jennie Weller Catering. Red draped tables were topped with several different styles of centerpieces made of Black Magic, Black Bacara, and Charlotte roses, red tulips and delicate Gloriosa lilies. And though the event was nothing short of fabulous, even more great was the couple that they were for. I greatly enjoy making an event spectacular, but doing it for a close friend or family member is even more exciting.

While we're on the topic of making things spectacular, I couldn't do it without my incredibly talented and devoted team. To Heather, Laura, Todd and my Mom, you guys are the backbone of this business and there's no doubt I couldn't do it without you. You'll never know how much I appreciate you guys! Never! Thanks gang! And to everyone else... I'll post some pictures of this incredible event just as soon as possible.

A Little Bit of Our Work

2008-05-15T14:50:00.002-05:00

Several people have asked to see some of the pictures of the stuff that we do at SWL Designs. Well, here ya go! By the way, though, all this is already on our website... www.SWLDesigns.com

What's in a name? and You don't know Jack!

2008-05-13T11:06:00.004-05:00

Well, folks, the word's out. I'm naming my child Jack and everyone keeps asking, "Where did that come from?" I don't think that they dislike it; I just think maybe they expected something different from Heather and me. Truth is... I'm not too sure where it came from. When I was a kid, my dad always called me Jack. But naming my baby boy Jack isn't based solely on that. I just think it's a cute, classic name. It's one that is cute as a kid, but masculine as an adult.

Anyway, now that we've decided on Jack, I'm realizing how many Jacks there are out there. Certainly fewer than Matthews, Jacobs, Johns, etc, but just think... we've got Jack Johnson, Jack Black, Jack McFarland from Will & Grace, Jack Nicholson, Jack Daniels. There's Jacks Hamburgers, a Jack in the Box, Cracker Jack, the song "Hit the Road, Jack", etc, etc.

Anyway, we're naming him Jack... and I love it!

It's going to be a boy!

2008-05-05T14:52:00.002-05:00

For those of you who haven't already heard, my wife had a doctor's appointment last Thursday and we found out our little baby is a boy! We're expecting Jack Robinson Little about the 23rd of September!

Also, we had the sneak peek at our new studio, Blank Canvas, this weekend during Prattville's City Fest. Though the rain scared some away, the crowd was decent and we got to impress quite a few people as they ventured into our unique little shop. Watch for the grand opening in June!

Reception at the Capitol

2008-05-01T14:50:00.002-05:00

On April 29th we did an amazing reception for Legacy, Partners in Environmental Education. The non-profit organization was being honored by the Governor and Mrs. Riley for their commitment to Alabama's environment. The old archives room in the south wing of the capitol was transformed into an elaborate event space. Beautiful and unique florals filled the room. It was an amazing evening for an amazing organization! The governor even asked to keep one of my arrangements for his office! Yeah!

New Studio to make Debut at Prattville City Fest

2008-05-01T14:45:00.001-05:00

Be sure to stop by our new location in Blank Canvas Studios this weekend during Prattville City Fest to get a sneak peak at what's in store. This unique space not only functions as the creative studios for SWL Designs and two FABULOUS photographer, Tiffany Hughes and Spring Bruner, but will also feature a variety of unique specialty gift items, stationery, and one-of-a-kind frames.

SWL Designs has a new home

2008-03-04T13:42:00.005-06:00

Beginning May 1st, SWL Designs will take up residence in historic downtown Prattville once again as we team up with two fabulous photographers to open The Blank Canvas, a boutique studio. Tiffany Hughes is an incredible photographer who will focus on children and family portraiture, and Spring Bruner, another fabulous photographer, will focus on wedding photography. Of course we'll be doing the same ole stuff... weddings, events, etc. The Blank Canvas will also be the new central Alabama office of Southern Bride Magazine. Please come out and visit us in June when we have our grand opening celebration. More info coming soon...

Bridal Show a Huge Success

2008-03-04T13:38:00.002-06:00

The River Region Bridal Event was a huge success! We had more than 100 brides register and more than 500 people attend. It is rumored that our show was the largest show this year in central Alabama. We had 57 exhibitors who represented everything from caterers and event planners to photographers and venues. The next show is scheduled for October 5th at the Marriott Legends. We hope you'll join us again!

2008-01-23T15:49:00.001-06:00

The new issue of Southern Bride Magazine is out! It's another beautiful addition to this fabulous publication. I did a variety of styling for this issue with flowers, cakes, and jewelry and also did a beautiful candy favor table for a story on various favors. Run by your local bookstore and pick up a copy today! It's full of GREAT ideas!

2008-01-01T15:43:00.000-06:00

The bridal show just keeps growing and growing. We've just made an agreement with the Marriott Legends in Prattville to be the exclusive bridal show at their location until the fall of 2009! We've also got some great incentives for those vendors interested in signing up for the Feb 24th show, so if you're interested, let us know. Also, sign up for more than one show and save $$$!!

Wishing You a Happy New Year!!!

River Region Bridal Event

2007-10-22T16:16:00.000-05:00

Information about the 08 River Region Bridal Event can be found on the RRBE website at http://www.riverregionbridal.com/. If you're interested in exhibiting, please check out the "For Exhibitors" page for all the show details as well as the registration information and forms. If you want to attend the show, registration information for brides will be available in early November! Hope to see y'all there!

The New Website is Up!!!

2007-10-22T16:15:00.001-05:00

Woo hoo! The new SWL Designs site is up and running. It's really just a design change, but something that needed to be done. New colors, new format, new pictures! Enjoy!

Southern Bride Photo Shoot

2007-10-17T11:47:00.000-05:00

On Monday I again had the opportunity to do some photo styling for Southern Bride Magazine at their photo shoot at the Tutwiler Hotel in downtown Birmingham. They are such a pleasure to work with and so much fun. You can see some of my handiwork in the December issue of Alabama Southern Bride. We also will have some custom favors and a candy table featured in that issue. More later...